New device may lower accident numbers, but in the meantime...

On behalf of Dawkins & Gowens Law Firm posted in Car Accidents on Sunday, May 21, 2017.

You've probably seen it more than a time or two on Oklahoma highways: a driver looking down at a hand-held device and typing with thumbs behind the wheel in moving traffic. Hopefully, you avoid such behavior while driving and do your best to remain alert and cautious of any distracted driver who may be in your vicinity. Just because you recognize the signs of distracted driving, however, doesn't mean you'll be able to avoid a collision.

With that in mind, consider a piece of new technology that could help police identify distracted drivers on the road. The device is called the Textalyzer, which can be used to connect to a person's cell phone to access recent activity information on the spot. Many believe laws allowing police to use Textalyzers will help lower the risk of accidents, but the device raises questions of privacy.

The device exists, but the laws do not.

Currently, no state has enacted a law allowing police to use Textalyzers. Some say doing so would violate motorists' privacy. In a sense, the devices are similar to Breathalyzers, except instead of measuring alcohol content in the body, the Textalyzer accesses electronic information that shows recent texting and online activity.

Many consider Textalyzers to be a potential means of preventing distracted driving accidents. Such collisions have been on the rise in recent years, despite increased driver education and law enforcement efforts.

What can you do in the absence of Textalyzer laws?

Since no law yet exists to allow police to use Textalyzers, you may wonder what can be done to gather evidence if you're injured in a collision caused by a driver who was texting at the time. In such situations, it is always important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Police and rescue workers often help in this regard.

You can also speak with an experienced attorney who can help you file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other costs resulting from the crash. An attorney can make use of any available evidence, including photographs, third-party testimony and medical records, to help maximize the amount of compensation you receive. Your lawyer can also handle all communications with the insurance companies while you focus on healing.

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